Ambient Temperature and Pregnancy Outcomes of Women with Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune Diseases (ADs) are health conditions caused by dysregulation of the immune system, resulting in destruction of organs by the individual’s own immune system. They affect 5-10% population, and 80% of individuals affected by ADs are women. Women with ADs are especially vulnerable during pregnancy due to increased risks of flare-ups. In addition, heat and stress are known triggers of the immune system. By studying ~50,000 pregnancies affected by ADs, this project will coordinate a multidisciplinary effort to investigate the effect of high ambient temperatures on pregnancy outcomes and healthcare utilization among women with ADs. In addition, the project will result in a novel patient-clinician program that raises awareness of the effects of high temperatures among pregnant women with ADs.